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Houbraken, Jacob
Ben Johnson Ben Johnson
1738 1738

The son of a clergyman of Scottish descent, Ben Jonson (1572–1637) helped shape the course of English literature, as one of the most highly regarded professional writers of the Jacobean period. He wrote a series of masques for performance at court. A nod to his success as a playwright is highlighted by the presence of a facemask and a jester stick below his portrait. Johnson’s demeanour is indicative of his elevated role in society.

 
Artist Artiste
Houbraken, Jacob
Artist Dates Naissance/décès de l'artiste
Dordrecht, Netherlands 1698–Amsterdam, Netherlands 1780 Dordrecht, Netherlands 1698–Amsterdam, Netherlands 1780
Title Titre
Ben Johnson Ben Johnson
Date Date
1738 1738
Category Collection
European Historical European Historical
Medium Technique d’expression
Engraving on paper Engraving on paper
Dimensions Dimensions
height / width: 52.90 x 35.70 cm; 20.83 x 14.06 in.
Credit Line Mention de source
Bequest of Adam Shortt 1969 Bequest of Adam Shortt 1969
Accession Number Numéro d'acquisition
12-047.082

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